Ionizing Radiation

Ionizing radiation is high-frequency radiation which is energetic enough to produce ions. This radiation has the ability to break off electrons from the materials in encounters, thus making these affected atoms or molecules cations. When living tissue is exposed to ionizing radiation, deformities and diseases (most notably cancer) can result. Forms of ionizing radiation include gamma rays, x-rays, and most ultraviolet light.^[1][2] Radiation is measured in Sieverts. Exposure to 5 Sieverts has a 50% chance of killing you, and exposure to 30 Sieverts will kill you 100% of the time. The background radiation you are exposed to every day is around 0.07-0.30 millionths of a sievert. Exposure to 1 tenth of a sievert or more comes with an increased risk of cancer.

See also[edit]

• Non-ionizing radiation

References[edit]